Sara, dressed in The Cake Factory’s signature black-and-white tiny polka dot apron with black-and-gray striped sash and straps, stopped at the counter. “I’m getting ready to place the order for shipping supplies. Do you have anything to add?”

“Everything I need is already on the list. Thanks.”

When Kelly had opened the online business, she’d hired Sara to help with the storefront and manage the shipping department. She now handled the entire inventory and reordering of supplies too.

“Okay, I know what I want,” Missy announced.

Kelly turned back to the case and pulled on a pair of plastic gloves.

“I’m going with cookies this time. Two dozen.” Her bracelets jingled as she pointed out items. “I’ll do six each of the chocolate-filled butter cookies with chocolate sprinkles, the key lime spritzer cookies, oatmeal date, and chocolate chip.”

Kelly took out a large box and started stacking cookies with a pair of tongs, separating each flavor with a square of wax paper. “How about your free ones?”

“Can I have all four in the chocolate-filled butter cookies?”

“You sure can. Those are my favorite too.” Kelly sealed the box with a glossy pink-and-black label and rang up the purchase.

“You’d better throw in a red velvet cake pop for me. I can’t resist those.”

Kelly pulled one out of the case. “In the box?”

“Yes, or I’ll eat it before I get there.” Missy swiped her debit card. “Are you going to make those lemon blackberry cakes again anytime soon? I swear that was the best dessert I’ve had in my life. I thought I might order one for someone special on Valentine’s Day.”

“That cake is not the same with frozen berries. I’ve tried it a dozen ways, and it just doesn’t work.” Kelly handed Missy her receipt. “We usually have fully ripe berries mid-July to late August, so I’m afraid you’ll have to wait until summer for that. But I have some wonderful new cakes for Valentine’s Day you can sample.”

“I can’t wait. I’m in a hurry this morning, but I’ll definitely be back in tomorrow.”

“Excellent. See you then.”

A makeshift door chime made from vintage tin measuring spoons and baubles tinkled against the glass front of the white wooden framed door as Missy left.

Kelly rearranged the cookies in the case. By the end of the day, this would be empty. It always was. Rather than risk leftovers, she promised bakery fresh products until they were gone. Then she simply turned the open sign to closed for the day. It seemed to work, and if anyone really wanted to be sure they didn’t miss out, they ordered ahead; her team was great at ensuring those requests always got filled.

Customers came through the door at a steady pace all morning.